WITH ELECTION DISTRICTS drawn by and for incumbents, more and more elections are effectively decided in the primaries. That means today’s primaries are at least as important as the November general election. Here’s a review of The State's endorsements:

U.S. Senate. Republican Rep. Jim DeMint has advocated bold ideas to solve big problems, and he has shown he can stick to his guns when he’s right, even in the face of intense pressure. He offers the best combination of skill, experience and demonstrated mettle.

On the Democratic ticket, state Education Superintendent Inez Tenenbaum is a thoughtful administrator who has shown a true belief in public service and working across party lines.

U.S. House District 6 (Republican). Mike Reino’s focus on jobs and job training and his centrist views make a better fit than the third-party views of his opponent.

Senate District 19 (Democratic). Sen. Kay Patterson makes a point of voting for what he believes to be best for the entire state, and he’s not afraid to form friendships across partisan, racial and ideological lines.

Senate District 21 (D). Sen. Darrell Jackson is committed to many important reforms and has demonstrated a willingness to think for himself and find issues where he can work across party lines.

Senate District 22 (R). Ken Wingate has thoroughly examined how our government works and come up with smart, detailed ways to improve it. He would be not just a vote, but a leader, on crucial reforms.

Senate District 23 (R). Shirley Sons’ work as a magistrate taught her to base decisions on facts, not politics and friendships. Her victory would improve the Senate’s ability to do the work of our state.

House District 69 (R). Rep. Ted Pitts has been one of the best examples of a House member who refuses to take marching orders from party bosses. He is committed to overhauling the tax code to provide adequate and equitable school funding and overhauling the government so the governor can carry out his agenda.

House District 70 (D). Rep. Joe Neal takes on unpopular issues, knowing he probably won’t win, but to make sure leaders at least consider them. He improves the quality of debate at the State House.

House District 71 (R). Rep. Rick Quinn reached across party lines to craft legislation that improves our tax code and guarantees equitable funding for schools. His involvement improves the odds for such changes.

House District 78 (R). Don Purcell is independent-minded, understands the state’s problems and offers smart solutions. Among them: retool our budgetary system by determining what services are needed, how much they cost and how best to pay for them.

House District 87 (R). David Perry is committed to more responsible budgeting, even if that involves unpopular decisions, and equitable school funding. He vows to do what he considers best for the state, rather than simply be just another party-line voter.

House District 89 (R). Rep. Kenny Bingham is committed to fundamental reform and has a reasonable long-term strategy for achieving it. His dedication, maturity and long ties to the district are assets.

Lexington County auditor (R). Chris Harmon promises to bring new energy and a higher level of customer service to the office: He wants lines short, phones answered and taxpayers well-served.

Lexington County coroner (R). Harry Harman has provided consistent service for years. His training in anatomy and mortuary science are key to the job.

Lexington County clerk of court (R). Tom Comerford is an able clerk of court who has worked to update the office, increased child support collections and found federal funds when county funding wasn’t forthcoming.

Lexington County sheriff (R). James Metts has shown a disturbing penchant for warring with other public officials, but he seems committed to improvement. He is easily the best qualified in this field.

Lexington County Council District 3 (R). Smokey Davis is a strong proponent of regional cooperation and understands the need to provide adequate services to keep up with growth.

Lexington Council District 4 (R). Debbie Summers is well suited to help the county address growth, meet service needs while controlling spending and foster regional cooperation.

Richland County clerk of court (D). Barbara Scott has been a steady force, converting her office from paper to computer and tripling child support collections. Her opponent gives no solid reason to replace her.

Richland County Council District 2 (D). Joyce Dickerson is committed to overcoming turf wars that keep the Midlands from working together. Her background resolving community issues prepares her for the task.

Richland County Council District 9 (R). Barbara Wyatt’s experience on the county Planning Commission and her tireless work to promote orderly growth and improve aesthetics make her the best choice.

Richland County Council District 10 (D). Bernice Scott’s strong, consistent voice make her easily superior to her one-issue opponent.

For the full text of our endorsements, go to www.thestate.com/ mld/state/news/opinion/. Scroll to the bottom of the page.